Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A security element for a data input device, the security element being mounted between the first and second printed-circuit boards of said data input device and comprising: a shape adapted to closing contacts via each of two extremities respectively on the first and second printed-circuit boards of the data input device when said data input device is in a closed position, said extremities being not electrically connected to each other.
This invention relates to a security element for a data input device, such as a keyboard or keypad, designed to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. The security element is mounted between two printed-circuit boards (PCBs) within the device. It has a shape that allows it to close electrical contacts on both PCBs when the device is in a closed position. The two extremities of the security element, which engage with the contacts on the respective PCBs, are not electrically connected to each other. This ensures that the security element itself does not conduct electricity between the PCBs but instead acts as a mechanical or physical barrier. The design likely prevents unauthorized access to internal components or ensures that the device remains in a secure state when closed. The security element may also serve as a tamper-evident or tamper-resistant feature, detecting or preventing attempts to open or modify the device. The invention is particularly useful in secure data input devices where preventing unauthorized access is critical, such as in financial terminals, secure access systems, or other high-security applications.
2. The security element according to claim 1 , wherein said adapted shape corresponds to a cylinder that is ridged on at least a part of a height of an external surface of the cylinder.
A security element is designed to prevent unauthorized access to a container, such as a bottle or vial, by incorporating a cylindrical shape with ridges on at least part of its external surface. The ridged surface enhances grip and makes it difficult to tamper with or remove the element without detection. The ridges may be uniform or vary in pattern, depth, or spacing to further deter tampering. The security element is typically integrated into the container's closure or cap, ensuring that any attempt to open or remove it leaves visible signs of interference. This design is particularly useful for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or high-security packaging where integrity and tamper-evidence are critical. The ridged surface also improves handling, reducing the risk of accidental damage or contamination. The element may be made from materials such as plastic, metal, or composite materials, depending on the application. The ridges can be molded, machined, or otherwise formed into the cylinder to achieve the desired security and functional properties. This design ensures that any unauthorized access is immediately apparent, maintaining product safety and consumer trust.
3. The security element according to claim 1 , wherein the security element has a cylindrical protrusion at each extremity, said protrusions providing contacts with each of the printed-circuit boards.
This invention relates to a security element designed for secure electronic communication between two printed-circuit boards (PCBs). The primary problem addressed is ensuring reliable and tamper-resistant electrical connections between the security element and the PCBs, particularly in applications where security and integrity are critical, such as in payment systems or authentication devices. The security element includes a cylindrical protrusion at each of its extremities. These protrusions serve as contact points, enabling electrical connections with the respective PCBs. The protrusions are structured to ensure stable and secure contact, minimizing the risk of disconnection or interference. The design likely enhances resistance to physical tampering, such as attempts to probe or manipulate the connections, thereby maintaining the integrity of the communication between the PCBs. The security element itself is likely a component that processes or transmits sensitive data, such as cryptographic operations or authentication signals. The protrusions may also facilitate alignment and mechanical stability when the security element is mounted between the PCBs, ensuring consistent performance. The overall design aims to provide a robust, secure interface for high-reliability applications.
4. The security element according to claim 1 , further comprising a positioning fin that extends laterally on a part of 4 s - a height of the positioning fin to provide for positioning and holding of the security element in at least one housing provided on one of the two printed-circuit boards.
A security element is designed for use in electronic devices, particularly in systems where two printed-circuit boards (PCBs) are connected. The security element includes a positioning fin that extends laterally along a portion of its height. This fin is used to position and secure the security element within a housing provided on one of the two PCBs. The fin ensures proper alignment and retention of the security element during assembly and operation, preventing misalignment or detachment that could compromise device functionality or security. The security element may also include additional features, such as electrical contacts or connectors, to facilitate secure and reliable electrical connections between the PCBs. The positioning fin enhances manufacturing efficiency by simplifying the assembly process and reducing the risk of errors. This design is particularly useful in applications where precise positioning and stable mechanical retention of the security element are critical, such as in secure communication devices, payment systems, or other high-reliability electronic systems. The fin's lateral extension and partial height coverage allow for optimized space utilization while maintaining structural integrity.
5. A data input device, which comprises: first and second printed circuit boards; at least one housing provided on one of said first or second printed-circuit boards; and at least one security element taking position between the first and second printed-circuit boards of said data input device in the at least one housing, the security element closing contacts via each of two extremities respectively on said first and second printed-circuit boards when said data input device is in a closed position, said extremities being not electrically connected to each other.
A data input device includes a first and second printed circuit board (PCB) with at least one housing attached to either PCB. A security element is positioned between the two PCBs within the housing. When the device is in a closed position, the security element closes electrical contacts at two extremities, one on each PCB. These extremities are not electrically connected to each other, ensuring that the security element must be present to complete the circuit. This design prevents unauthorized access or tampering by requiring the security element to establish a valid electrical connection between the PCBs. The housing provides structural support and alignment for the security element, ensuring proper contact closure. The device may be used in secure input systems where tamper detection or authentication is required, such as in payment terminals, access control systems, or other secure electronic devices. The security element's position between the PCBs and the housing's role in maintaining alignment enhance reliability and security. The lack of direct electrical connection between the extremities ensures that only the intended security element can complete the circuit, preventing bypass or spoofing attempts.
6. A method for detecting an intrusion in a data input device, the method comprising: providing the data input device in a closed position, wherein the data input device comprises: first and second printed circuit boards; at least one housing provided on one of said first or second printed-circuit boards; and at least one security element taking a position between the first and second printed-circuit boards of said data input device in the at least one housing, the security element closing contacts via each of two extremities respectively on said first and second printed-circuit boards when said data input device is in the closed position, said extremities being not electrically connected to each other; and detecting intrusion when at least one contact between one of the two extremities of said security element and one of said first and second printed-circuit boards is open.
A method for detecting unauthorized tampering or intrusion in a data input device, such as a keyboard or keypad, involves monitoring the integrity of a security element positioned between two printed circuit boards (PCBs) within the device. The data input device is designed with a housing that encloses the security element, which has two extremities that make contact with the first and second PCBs when the device is in a closed, operational state. These extremities are not electrically connected to each other, meaning they serve as mechanical switches rather than conductive pathways. The method detects an intrusion by monitoring the continuity of the contacts between the security element's extremities and the PCBs. If any of these contacts become open—indicating physical tampering, forced opening, or other unauthorized access—the system identifies this as an intrusion event. This approach ensures that any attempt to compromise the device's integrity is immediately detected, enhancing security for sensitive applications. The security element's placement and the housing structure prevent bypassing the detection mechanism, ensuring reliable intrusion detection.
Unknown
September 3, 2019
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